Polylactic acids (PLAs) are biodegradable polyesters synthesized from renewable biomass resources. Currently, PLA are produced via a two step chemo-bio process which is costly. In our previous study, we established a 'single-pot' system for the production of LA-based polymers from glucose. Using this system, we succeeded in producing poly[LA-co-3-hydroxybutyrate(3HB)] with various LA fractions. In this study, we were interested in enhancing the LA-fractions, polymer yields and the properties of the polymers.Recombinant E. coli harboring the genes encoding enzymes involved in P(LA-co-3HB) biosynthesis were cultivated on medium containing biomass-derived sugars. The polymers were then extracted and characterized. The cells accumulated P(LA-co-3HB) with up to 60 mol% LA and polymer contents of up to 80 wt%. The thermal and mechanical properties of the polymers varied with LA fraction in the copolymers. Furthermore, the transparency of the polymer films improved with increase in LA fractions. The copolymers were stretchy and pliable indicating that they have potential for a wider range of applications. This study demonstrated that high LA containing polymers could be produced efficiently in a single-step process from renewable biomass-derived sugars hence offering the potential of reducing P(LA-co-3HB) production costs.

Biosynthesis and properties of advanced biopolymers containing lactate by metabolically engineered bacteria

244th National Meeting (2012)

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